Tired of the bureaucracy and limitations imposed by those managing her career, a popular musician left her record label in 2012 to pursue independent music. She knew it would be a difficult leap and disappoint countless industry professionals, but believed the risk could be worth it. One of her biggest challenges? Where would she get the $500,000 needed to record an album on her own?

She decided to create a video that told her story and upload it to Kickstarter. Within 30 days, the campaign raised $1.2 million, a record for the platform at that time. Her experience changed the game for independent musicians everywhere. And she did it by simply telling her story.

Do your loved ones know your story? Imagine the impact you could make by sharing how special your loved ones are to you. One of the best ways we’ve found is with a “Legacy Love Letter.”

A Legacy Love Letter is not a legal document, but it can be added to your Estate Plan. It’s a letter you create simply to pass a blessing on to the next generation — in a way that resonates and inspires. It may feel intimidating to write a letter of this nature at first, but it doesn’t need to be. Here are three things to include:

Your beliefs and values. What experiences or people shaped your journey of faith? What do you believe regarding money, service, raising children or marriage? What Christian causes or ministries are you passionate about?

Life lessons. Can you list the defining moments that impacted your life’s trajectory? What were some of your biggest joys and regrets? How did these help develop a Christ-like character in your life?

Words of encouragement. Nothing makes a person’s heart swell quite like hearing “I love you.” What can you say to your loved ones to let them know just how much they mean to you? Can you name any unique character traits or gifts you see at work in their lives? Are there especially meaningful or encouraging Scriptures you want to leave with those you love most?